Minimum kettle diameter for weldless fittings

[thelawlost]

Hey all,

I'm looking to build a small 2.5-3 gallon eBIAB setup for test batches. I was interested in Northern Brewer's MegaPot or Tall Boy 8 gallon options, but someone left a review that the kettle's diameter (12.5") was too small and the kettle wall too curved for weldless fittings. Any truth behind this? Has anyone else successfully gone weldless on one of these? Obviously, with the the heater element, I'm particular concerned about leaks!

Thanks for your help!

 

[BargainFittings]

You can mitigate some of the curve by tightening down the nut and element to flatten the hole area just a bit. Or use a block and a rubber mallet right at the hole area.

Some people use the stock gasket on the outside. Flat gaskets (stock) work best on the outer surface with the curve. O-rings on the inner surface with a locknut.